Open MSG Files. The best way to view Microsoft Outlook message files online.

What are MSG Files?

MSG files are Microsoft Outlook's native message format, containing complete email messages with all their components: message text, HTML formatting, sender/recipient information, timestamps, attachments, and embedded objects.

These files are created when you save individual emails from Microsoft Outlook, making them perfect for archiving important messages or sharing specific emails outside of the Outlook environment.

How do I open an MSG file online?

1. Go to the MSG Viewer page.
2. Drag and drop your .msg file into the window, or click “Open File…“ to select it from your device.

The tool will automatically extract and display the original email message and any attached files.

Data Protection: All processing takes place in your browser — your files never leave your device.

How do I open a MSG file in Gmail?

You can open .msg files directly from Gmail using the Letter Opener add-on.

Option 1 — Install from Gmail

1. In Gmail, click the .msg file attachment.
2. In the No preview available window, click Connect more apps.
3. Search for Letter Opener and click Install on the product page.
4. Once installed, use Open with → Letter Opener to view .msg files directly in Gmail.

Option 2 — Install from Google Workspace Marketplace

1. Go to the Letter Opener listing.
2. Click Install and follow the prompts to connect it to your Google account.
3. After installation, open any .msg file in Gmail and choose Open with → Letter Opener.

How do I open a MSG file in Google Drive?

You can open .msg files directly from Google Drive using the Letter Opener add-on.

Option 1 — Install from Google Drive

1. In Google Drive, click the .msg file.
2. In the No preview available window, click Connect more apps.
3. Search for Letter Opener and click Install on the product page.
4. Once installed, use Open with → Letter Opener to view .msg files directly in Google Drive.

Option 2 — Install from Google Workspace Marketplace

1. Go to the Letter Opener listing.
2. Click Install and follow the prompts to connect it to your Google account.
3. After installation, open any .msg file in Google Drive and choose Open with → Letter Opener.

Why Use Letter Opener for MSG Files?

• No Outlook Required: View MSG files without having Microsoft Outlook installed
• Complete Compatibility: Supports MSG files from all Outlook versions and Office 365
• Preserve Formatting: Maintains original fonts, colors, tables, and embedded images
• Access All Metadata: View sender details, timestamps, message headers, and delivery information
• Secure Processing: All processing takes place in your browser — your files never leave your device.
• Multi-Platform: Works on Windows, Mac, Linux, tablets, and smartphones

MSG File Technical Information

MSG files use Microsoft's Compound Document format (also known as OLE2 or Structured Storage) to store email data. This format preserves all email properties including:

• Message headers (From, To, CC, BCC, Subject, Date)
• Plain text and HTML body content
• File attachments with original filenames
• Embedded images and OLE objects
• Digital signatures and encryption information
• Custom message properties and flags

Troubleshooting MSG Files

MSG File Won't Open

If an MSG file appears corrupted, it may have been damaged during transfer or saved improperly. Letter Opener includes error recovery features for many common issues.

Missing Attachments

Some MSG files may have attachments removed for security reasons. Letter Opener will display all available content and indicate if attachments were originally present.